Curious about Materials Science?
Check out some general information and see if this major might be right for you.
Would it surprise you to learn that a common undergraduate degree for CEOs is engineering? As an engineering student fighting to survive each semester, it may seem like the business school is its own world. But with the analytical and problem-solving skills you develop as an engineering student, combined with the knowledge of business processes, you could be on your way to being the next top senior manager, entrepreneur or C-suite executive.
For me, the Department of Materials Science & Engineering gave me the flexibility within my degree plan to develop skills and knowledge in material science and business. The department worked to help me graduate within four years. In that time, I accomplished:
- B.S., Materials Science & Engineering
- Minor, Project Management
- Certification, Corrosion Science & Engineering
- Courses toward my M.S. finance degree
- A variety of internships and research projects
- Study abroad in Peru
- Leadership in two global engineering water sustainability projects in Honduras
- Leadership positions in a variety of organizations
Competitive Advantage
In today’s world, employers are increasing education requirements for new hires. As an engineer, you’re already attractive to companies. Combining engineering with a business degree gives you a competitive edge and differentiation that increases career opportunities at a faster rate. It gives you a global perspective of the research you do in the lab or the equations that keep you up at night. You become a bridge between the technical experts and corporate leaders who make business decisions. Being able to impact both sides can make you a key asset to the marketplace.
Increased Skill Set
In order to advance into senior management as an engineer, you are going to find yourself requiring a business skill set. If you have a desire to lead a team one day, it’s critical to understand how to effectively implement strategic decisions and the full impact of those decisions on your team and business. Even being able to support your research or project with how it’s profitable to the business goes a long way. However, extensive engineering degree plans make it challenging for departments to teach us these additional skills. It’s up to you to take advantage of opportunities that lead to developing your oral and written communication skills, knowledge of the markets, ability to spot opportunities, etc.
Powerful Network
By receiving a degree from Texas A&M, you have access to one of the largest and most powerful networks in the world! The College of Engineering and Mays Business School are ranked as top programs across the world, so why not take advantage of both? Being part of the College of Engineering and Mays Business School allows you a chance to meet the next leaders in both industries. If you’re looking for an undergraduate department that will give you the flexibility to lead your academic career in a variety of ways and develop you into the next ultimate and dynamic leader for the industry, I highly recommend materials science and engineering! The most valuable network is the group of students sitting next to you. Yes, the ones you stay up with at night trying to understand how crystal structures are going to help you create the next technological breakthrough. Take advantage of the network around you and get to know the person next to you!
Materials Science & Engineering
If you found this blog post interesting, you may consider reading “The Co-op Connection” and “You Graduated Without a Job Offer.. Now What?.”